PENSIONERS have been targeted in a ground-breaking strategy by Sefton Council to ensure they enjoy life as valued community members.

Sefton’s strategy for older citizens 2014-2016, is a two year plan to challenge the stereotypes of older people.

The borough currently has the highest proportion of residents aged over 65 and over 75 within England – with this figure set to rise.

Setting out why Sefton needs a strategy, the report sent before the council’s health and wellbeing board yesterday, said that an “influential” 2013 document published by the House of Lords said that there had been a “collective failure to address the implications” of our rapidly ageing population.

It also said that the government and society were “woefully under-prepared” for this “demographic time-bomb” – with this as one of reasons for the strategy.

Sefton’s report also dispelled the societal perception that older people are a drain on the country’s resources by indicating that this is actually untrue.

Using an NHS report which assessed the cost of state pensions, age-related welfare, and use of the NHS it compared this with the contribution of older people.

In the comparison it looked at income taxes, VAT, inheritance tax and capital gains tax and the number of over 65s volunteering and looking after grandchildren.

Findings showed that the NET contribution of over 65s to the UK economy in 2010 was £40bn, rising per annum by 2030 to £75bn.

The report states that the aim is to change the view that this age group are a drain of resources, to the view that they are active citizens.

Other objectives contained within the report include ensuring the voice of older citizens is reflected in the planning and delivery of services, reducing the level of loneliness and social isolation experienced by older people and to challenge providers to treat vulnerable citizens with dignity and respect in all care settings.

The strategy also aims to promote and respond to the impact that the new care bill will have on older citizens in the borough – making sure that its implications are widely understood and communicated.

Sefton say that if the strategy is implemented effectively, older people will have access to quality advice, be well informed, be able to make a positive contribution to their community and will play an active part in decisions which affect their lives.

We want to know what your thoughts on the strategy are call Georgina on 01704 398 249 or email georgina.stubbs@trinitymirror.com.